Adjustment Disorder

Definition

Adjustment disorder is an excessive, lengthy reaction to a stressful event or situation. It could be 1 stressor or a combination of stressors affecting 1 person or a group of people. This reaction seriously damages social and occupational functioning.

There are several subtypes of the disorder, including adjustment disorder with:

Symptoms

Adjustment disorder symptoms are expected to begin within 3 months and may disappear within 6 months after the causing stressor and/or its results have been removed. In the case of chronic adjustment disorder, the symptoms may last longer than 6 months. In general, they are related to ongoing persistent stressors like a chronic medical disability.

Symptoms may vary, but are similar in that the reaction to the stressor is worse or more excessive than expected. In order for a diagnosis of adjustment disorder to be made, symptoms must interfere with an individual’s social or work functioning.

Diagnosis

An evaluation will be done. It will be used to assess whether your symptoms follow a recent stressful event, and if the symptoms are more severe than what is normal for you. You will also be evaluated to make sure there are no underlying disorders or disease, such as depression, an anxiety disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder. You may be referred to a psychiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment

The main goal of treatment is to resolve symptoms and return the person to a normal level of functioning. Treatment is important so that the disorder doesn’t become a larger illness, like major depression. Treatment options include:

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or counseling are the primary treatments for adjustment disorders. Therapy is used to help people understand why the stressful event caused the symptoms. It also helps develop coping mechanisms for future stressors. Therapy is generally short-term and can take any of the following forms:

Individual

Family

Behavioral

Group

Medications

Medications may be used in combination with therapy to ease common symptoms. They are generally prescribed on a short-term basis until the symptoms resolve.

Medications may treat:

Depression

Anxiety

Insomnia

Prevention

While there is no known way to prevent adjustment disorders, the prognosis is good. Adjustment disorders generally resolve with treatment and time.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.